Queensland Aboriginal and Islander Health Council

16 Years of Partnership Strengthening
Queensland’s Aboriginal and Torres
Strait Islander Health Workforce

For more than 16 years, UNE Partnerships and the Queensland Aboriginal and Islander Health Council (QAIHC) have worked together to strengthen the capability of Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services (ACCHSs) across Queensland.

Through this long-standing partnership, flexible and culturally responsive training has helped build a skilled health workforce, supporting administration professionals to develop the knowledge, confidence and practical skills needed to contribute to quality healthcare delivery within their communities.

At the heart of the collaboration is the nationally recognised Certificate III in Business (Medical Administration), a qualification carefully selected to strengthen administrative capability within Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services while creating meaningful career pathways for staff.

Hear firsthand about the impact of the Certificate III in Business (Medical Administration) program and the partnership between QAIHC and UNE Partnerships.

“Valuable partnerships means quality outcomes
for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Communities”

— Sandy Robertson, QAIHC

Building Capability Through Culturally Responsive Learning

Many participants enter the program with little or no previous experience in adult education. Recognising this, UNE Partnerships works closely with QAIHC to provide a supportive learning experience that accommodates the realities of working in community health settings.

Students complete their qualification while remaining in their roles, balancing study alongside work and personal commitments through a combination of:

  • Self-paced online learning
  • Interactive workshops held at QAIHC Head office twice a year
  • One-on-one coaching and learner support
  • Practical workplace-based learning

This flexible approach enables participants from remote, regional and metropolitan communities across Queensland to access nationally recognised training without needing to leave their workplace or community.

The supportive learning environment is consistently highlighted by graduates.

“Gary Smith, the facilitator, is excellent. He provides clear explanations and examples, with great communication and support throughout the workshop. I would highly recommend the workshop to all staff.”

— Leanne P.

Creating Confidence and Career Pathways

The partnership has consistently delivered strong student outcomes, with high completion rates and graduates reporting increased confidence in their professional capabilities.

For many participants, completing the Certificate III represents far more than gaining a qualification. It becomes the foundation for further education, expanded responsibilities and career progression within Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services.

Since the partnership began, more than 350 staff members have completed training through the program, helping strengthen health services and improve outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities across Queensland.

Graduates frequently describe the training as both engaging and empowering.

“Sandy and Gary are amazing and made the course enjoyable and easy to do.”

— Tamara M.

A Partnership Built on Shared Values

The enduring relationship between QAIHC and UNE Partnerships reflects a shared commitment to improving health outcomes through workforce development.

By investing in the skills and confidence of medical administration professionals, the partnership helps strengthen the operational capability of Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services, supporting the delivery of culturally safe, community-led healthcare.

Gary Smith, Academic Director – Health Programs at UNE Partnerships, said the success of the partnership has been built on collaboration and a shared vision for community health.

“For more than 16 years, our educational partnership with QAIHC has supported the development of a skilled, capable and culturally responsive healthcare workforce. Built on trust, shared purpose and collaboration, the partnership has contributed to continuous improvement across Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health services. We value this longstanding relationship and the positive outcomes achieved through our shared commitment to education and quality healthcare.”

— Gary Smith, Academic Director – Health Programs, UNE Partnerships

Supporting Organisations
Across Queensland

UNE Partnerships continues to work alongside organisations such as QAIHC to deliver tailored workforce development solutions that meet the unique needs of industry and community.

Whether supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health organisations, government agencies, not-for-profit providers or private sector employers, UNE Partnerships designs flexible training programs that deliver meaningful workforce outcomes.

Organisations interested in corporate training opportunities can explore UNE Partnerships’ customised workforce development solutions and corporate enrolment options.

Individuals interested in studying the Certificate III in Business (Medical Administration) can also explore available enrolment pathways and discover additional training and professional development opportunities through UNE Partnerships.

For more information about QAIHC, visit www.qaihc.com.au.

Are you ready to study for your future?

Are you ready to further your professional development and advance your career but still have a few questions?

Submit an enquiry with us today and one of our friendly Course Advisors will provide you with further information.






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